Introduction
Craving a delicious and satisfying Philly cheesesteak but don’t want to break the bank or spend hours in the kitchen? Look no further! This easy Philly cheesesteak recipe brings the iconic flavors of Philadelphia right to your home, using simple ingredients and a straightforward cooking process. Get ready to enjoy a mouthwatering cheesesteak in under 30 minutes without emptying your wallet.
Making Your Philly Cheesesteak: The Step-by-Step Guide
Gather Your Ingredients
This recipe uses affordable and readily available ingredients, making it a perfect weeknight meal.
- Steak: Thinly sliced ribeye or sirloin steak is ideal, but flank steak works well too. Ask your butcher to slice it thinly, or partially freeze the steak to make slicing easier.
- Onions: Yellow or white onions, thinly sliced.
- Peppers (Optional): Green bell peppers, thinly sliced (red or yellow bell peppers can be added for extra sweetness and color).
- Cheese: Provolone is the classic choice, but American cheese or even Cheez Whiz (for a truly authentic experience) can be substituted.
- Hoagie Rolls: Good quality hoagie or sub rolls are crucial. They need to be sturdy enough to hold all the fillings.
- Oil: Vegetable oil or olive oil for cooking.
- Seasoning: Salt, pepper, garlic powder (optional).
Easy Preparation
- Prep the Ingredients: Slice the steak, onions, and peppers (if using). Have your cheese ready.
- Cook the Onions and Peppers: Heat the oil in a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat. Add the onions and peppers (if using) and cook until softened and slightly caramelized, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
- Cook the Steak: Add a little more oil to the skillet if needed. Add the sliced steak and cook, breaking it up with a spatula, until it’s browned and cooked through, about 3-5 minutes. Be careful not to overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if necessary.
- Combine and Cheese: Add the cooked onions and peppers back to the skillet with the steak. Mix well. Form the mixture into portions or mounds in the skillet. Top each mound with slices of cheese.
- Melt the Cheese: Allow the cheese to melt slightly, about 1-2 minutes. You can add a splash of water to the skillet and cover it briefly to help the cheese melt faster.
- Assemble the Cheesesteaks: Using a spatula, carefully scoop up each cheesy steak portion and place it into a hoagie roll.
Tips for a Delicious and Cheap Cheesesteak
- Freeze Your Steak: Partially freezing your steak before slicing makes it much easier to achieve those ultra-thin slices.
- Season Generously: Don’t be afraid to season your steak and onions with salt, pepper, and a touch of garlic powder.
- Quality Rolls Matter: The right roll can make or break your cheesesteak. Look for soft but sturdy hoagie rolls that can handle the filling.
- Use Affordable Cuts: While ribeye is traditional, flank steak or even thinly sliced top round can be delicious and more budget-friendly.
- Customize to Your Taste: Add your favorite toppings like mushrooms, hot sauce, or a drizzle of your favorite cheese sauce.
Conclusion
With this easy and affordable Philly cheesesteak recipe, you can enjoy a taste of Philadelphia without leaving your home or emptying your wallet. The simple ingredients and straightforward steps make it a perfect weeknight meal that the whole family will love. So, gather your ingredients, fire up your skillet, and get ready to indulge in a truly satisfying cheesesteak experience. Enjoy!